(Kuching, 23rd) Sarawak is in a leading position in tackling climate change and is committed to sustainable development and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari stated that according to the negotiations of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), the 2024 Natural Resources and Environment Act passed in the Sarawak legislative assembly grants autonomy in environmental matters, allowing the Sarawak Natural Resources and Environment Bureau (NREB) to take over environmental responsibilities from the Federal Ministry of Environment.
He said this governance transition is a turning point, empowering the Sarawak government to formulate and implement environmental policies tailored to the unique needs and challenges of the region.
"We are leaders. With the framework provided by the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and the 2024 Natural Resources (Greenhouse Gas Emissions) Act, we have the ability to drive economic growth, sustainable development, and the protection of our heritage. To effectively fulfill this responsibility, the Sarawak government is committed to providing the state's Natural Resources and Environment Committee with ample resources, capacity-building support, and state-of-the-art tools to excel in these critical tasks."
Abang Johari said this while speaking at the 2023/2024 Sarawak Premier's Environmental Award (PSEA) ceremony last night.
Additionally, he added that the major outcomes of the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change held in Baku include strengthened commitments to carbon pricing, funding green infrastructure, and increased investment in sustainable technologies.
Therefore, he said, Sarawak aligns with this global goal by developing clean energy solutions such as hydropower, solar, and hydrogen energy.
"We are also pioneering the implementation of greenhouse gas (GHG) regulations and promoting sustainable practices to tackle climate change and drive long-term growth."